Caerlaverock meaning “fort of the skylark” seems a fitting name for Caerlaverock Castle in southern Scotland. This magnificent medieval fortress, located in a pastoral setting of gently rolling lands at the edge of Solway Firth, sits near a nature reserve with blinds for watching birds that flit about grasslands, swamp and marshes. Birdsong fills the […]
This is an overview of our 3 night itinerary on a road trip into southern Scotland from Edinburgh to Glasgow, concentrating on the Dumfries & Galloway area and the coastal west. Despite its proximity to the Scottish capital and England’s Lake District, this region sees the fewest tourists in the country…which appealed to me. If […]
Old Town Edinburgh oozes history. Haunting bagpipes fill the air as you cross cobblestones on the way to the massive castle on the hill, passing tall tenement buildings with weathered stone facades. Secretive alleyways tucked under arches beg exploring. An intriguing atmosphere lingers from a time long ago…everywhere you look. Aware that there are enough […]
We stayed at Tron Kirk Residence apartments 219 High Street. It also was a wonderful apartment with living room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and a private bath, although a little more dated than your place.. Couldn’t have been a better location! It was just downhill half a block from St Giles. I had known there was to bee a classical piano concert at St Giles the evening we arrived. Unfortunately I forgot, in the excitement of being there. However, I wandered in one day just to look around, and discovered a vocal concert happening. I was able to sit and listen while admiring the architecture of that fabulous building. It was by far my favorite location in Edinburgh. I’m sorry your stay was cut short. Hopefully you are able to return in the near future. We hope to return, then venture into the Highlands and some of the smaller villages. Safe Travels! (we are also from USA).
St Giles is indeed a beautiful place to sit and ponder life. Lucky you for the surprise vocal concert happening during your visit. I did in fact get another chance to go back when my daughter studied abroad and spent a semester in Glasgow. Loved soaking up the ambiance at St. Giles and getting to explore much more of Edinburgh. And I agree that lodging near there (St. Giles) makes a perfect location!
I’m heart broken as I sit here staring at my computer, lacking the energy to process vacation pics when all I can think of is my poor sweet pup who died while we were away. The downside of travel is definitely those we leave behind. Being too far away to get home in time when […]
I can’t quit thinking about the calculated, carefully orchestrated, heinous killing spree that targeted Western tourists and Christian people in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. So far the death toll is 253 people, and still rising, with another 400 or so lying in hospitals. The 8 bombs that were simultaneously detonated around 8:45am April […]
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JaNeal Smith - So detailed, I love the photos and anticipation of “what’s down that path”
Beautifully written, great amount of history researched. I can almost picture the timeline of this castle.
Kim - You never knew where those unassuming rural roads would lead! Scotland is chock full of hidden gems like these. Thanks for reading!
lisa kahr - I recently found out I am a descendant of the Maxwell clan and this castle. I hope to visit one day in 2024!
Kim Walker - How very cool! Imagine what fascinating stories lie within those castle walls…